What is the definition of a global citizen ?

My personal definition of a global citizen is an individual with a defined nationality who spends many years living abroad and, over time and through their experiences, feels not only a citizen of their own country but also an integral part of a global community.

Each country in which this individual lives will shape them in the deepest possible way; the local culture, language, cuisine, scents, architecture, landscapes, human interactions, and the unique culture of each nation will all contribute to enriching them to the point where they may feel like a stranger in their own country.

This is my personal story, as well as that of my wife Magali. We left for Mexico when we were just over 20 years old, spending 11 years in that wonderful country, followed by 7 years in Russia, and more than 2 years in Qatar. We have also lived in the United States (2 years), Australia (6 months), Canada (6 months), and the United Kingdom (1 year and 6 months) for some time.

Feeling like a global citizen means feeling at home everywhere, a sensation we often experience while traveling. However, this feeling is paradoxical because one feels at home everywhere and nowhere, even in one’s own country.

Feeling like a global citizen involves developing a sensitivity that transcends borders, placing humanity at the center of global issues, and being somewhat of a humanist. It means feeling solidarity and identifying oneself as a human being. Thanks to our life experiences, we have a more global and therefore more objective perspective, especially in relation to our own country.

Being a global citizen means being open-minded and willing to understand and learn from different viewpoints and ways of life.

Ultimately, being a global citizen is about sharing a set of humanistic values.